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Best Californian Restaurants in Imperial Beach

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18 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Animae restaurant
1. Animae
4.7
Exceptional(3365)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Downtown
Booked 82 times today
Animae, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, is a shining beacon of Californian cuisine, masterfully intertwined with Asian influences. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey elevates the dining experience by harnessing the essence of California cooking, using local produce and seasonal ingredients in every dish. The restaurant's coal-fired oven and grill bring a delightful depth to creations like the "melt-in-your-mouth" A5 Wagyu and the "incredibly flavorful" tomahawk tocino, leaving diners in awe. Animae's vibrant atmosphere and artful presentation make it a "must-visit" for those seeking an authentic and innovative taste of California's culinary landscape.
A photo of ALBACA restaurant
2. ALBACA
3.8
Excellent(110)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Coronado
Booked 3 times today
ALBACA at Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa offers a delightful dining experience surrounded by the stunning beauty of Coronado. This restaurant shines with its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, making every dish a standout. Guests rave about the "delicious sushi-grade tuna appetizer" and the perfectly cooked "lobster pasta loaded with YUGE pieces of lobster claw." The sunny California setting, combined with "super friendly service" and a "lovely setting by the Bay," creates an inviting atmosphere for all. Whether enjoying a meal poolside or near a cozy fire pit, diners can expect an unforgettable culinary adventure at ALBACA.
A photo of Cocina 35 Coronado restaurant
3. Cocina 35 Coronado
4.6
Exceptional(152)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Coronado
Booked 65 times today
Our team is dedicated to bring to you the essence of Mexico, the flavors, aromas, culture, service and textures that were given to us, growing up cooking right next to our grandparents in Mexico.We are the only restaurant in San Diego that specialized in Chilaquiles the Most traditional Mexican Breakfast.#BESTCHILAQUILESINTOWN
A photo of Grant Grill restaurant
4. Grant Grill
4.6
Exceptional(1656)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown
Booked 16 times today
Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, masterfully delivers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience. Celebrated for its "world-class" food and "outstanding service," this iconic restaurant has been a beacon of culinary excellence since 1951. The menu, reflecting the best of seasonal ingredients, offers a fresh approach to American classics, ensuring every dish is a standout. Diners rave about the "superb" seabass and "divine" pork chop, while the elegant ambiance and attentive service create a perfect setting for any occasion. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or an exquisite dinner, Grant Grill promises an unforgettable experience, redefining Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
5. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.6
Exceptional(4641)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 101 times today
Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego's Little Italy is a quintessential hotspot for authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary flavors. This gem pays homage to its roots in the fishing industry with a mouthwatering menu that features renowned dishes such as the lobster roll and clam chowder, praised for being “chock full of clams.” The vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service are frequently highlighted in reviews, with one diner noting the “excellent experience, food, and ambience.” With a stellar raw bar and an enticing happy hour, Ironside promises a “delightful experience” that diners find irresistible.
A photo of Bronze Bird restaurant
6. Bronze Bird
4.6
Exceptional(174)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Downtown
Booked 8 times today
Bronze Bird, nestled in the vibrant Downtown San Diego, offers a delightful foray into Contemporary American cuisine, skillfully blending So Cal comfort fare with modern culinary techniques. Located in The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, this spot is revered for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes, which make it a perfect pre-theater dining destination. Diners rave about its inventive twists on classic dishes and the attentive staff that ensures every visit is memorable. The restaurant's ambiance complements its culinary offerings, creating a "casual and fun" atmosphere that keeps guests coming back for more. Whether it's the perfectly grilled steak or the divine tomato soup, Bronze Bird promises an authentic and satisfying Contemporary American dining experience.
A photo of Dobson's Bar & Restaurant restaurant
7. Dobson's Bar & Restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1454)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Downtown
Booked 9 times today
Dobson's Bar & Restaurant is a stellar destination for seafood lovers in Downtown San Diego. Known for its exquisite seafood cuisine, the restaurant delights patrons with dishes like the "outstanding" Chilean Sea Bass, which has been praised by diners as one of the best they've ever tasted. The legendary mussel bisque is frequently described as "absolutely out of this world," making it a must-try for anyone visiting. The seafood offerings at Dobson’s are not only fresh but also infused with innovative flavors, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. Pair this with an intimate ambiance and attentive service, and you have a seafood haven that's hard to beat.
A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant
8. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge
4.3
Awesome(650)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Downtown
Booked 26 times today
Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge is a standout gem in Downtown San Diego, offering an authentic Californian twist on Mediterranean and Italian classics. Just steps from the marina, this culinary haven is celebrated for its "fantastic Italian food" and "delicious cocktails," creating a "multi-sensory culinary sanctuary" that invites guests to relax and indulge. Diners rave about the vibrant atmosphere, with one delighted guest noting, "Everything about this place was amazing!" The combination of exquisite dishes like the "spicy rigatoni with just the right amount of heat" and impeccable service make Salvatore's a must-visit for those seeking exceptional Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean flair.
A photo of Queenstown Public House restaurant
9. Queenstown Public House
4.3
Awesome(582)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 9 times today
Queenstown Public House in Little Italy, San Diego, is a culinary gem offering authentic New Zealand cuisine in a charming, historic craftsman house from 1905. Diners rave about the "fantastic energy" and "warm and welcoming" atmosphere, making it a delightful escape to New Zealand's rich culinary landscape. Known for its generous portions and reasonable prices, this restaurant excels with its organic beef and lamb burgers, alongside a variety of fresh salads and entrees. Patrons consistently highlight the "phenomenal" food and "excellent service," ensuring a memorable dining experience. Queenstown Public House masterfully blends tradition with flavor, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
A photo of Craft & Commerce restaurant
10. Craft & Commerce
4.4
Awesome(1097)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 39 times today
Craft & Commerce in Little Italy, San Diego, is celebrated for its exceptional Burgers that stand out in quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "filling and flavorful" C&C Burger, which comes perfectly paired with fries and a delectable sauce. The burger is a star on their diverse menu, often praised for its ability to satisfy even the most discerning burger enthusiasts. With an upbeat atmosphere and a team that provides top-tier service, Craft & Commerce is a must-visit for burger lovers seeking a memorable dining experience. This spot truly embodies the spirit of great Burgers cuisine, making it a local favorite.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • JoVIP
    New Orleans / Louisiana •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We were only in San Diego for 24 hours, and Animae was the perfect foodie destination for our short trip. Chef Tara’s menu masterfully stays true to Filipino flavors while elevating them in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Every dish was beautifully executed, and the balance of flavors was impeccable. Our server, Chenise, made the experience even more memorable. She was incredibly attentive and knowledgeable, guiding us through the menu with thoughtful recommendations. She kept the pacing and coursing of our meal just right, ensuring we could fully enjoy each dish without feeling rushed. The cocktails were another highlight - both inventive and perfectly balanced. Each drink complemented the food beautifully, and we could absolutely see ourselves coming back just to sit at the bar and work our way through the cocktail menu. From start to finish, Animae delivered on every level—food, service, and ambiance. If you’re looking for a truly special dining experience in San Diego, this is it. We’ll definitely be back next time we’re in town!
    More info
    AnimaePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Asian• Downtown
    •
    4.7
  • GibsonVIP
    Dallas - Fort Worth •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Amazing meal, start to finish. Each course was perfectly executed.
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    insideOUT was such a cool and fun experience! I would love to stay in the “oasis” part of the restaurant next time instead of at a standard table, but regardless the ambience was wonderful and the food was even better! So cute and lively for a fun brunch vibe and service was also amazing.
    More info
    insideOUTPrice: Expensive• Californian• Hillcrest
    •
    4.8
  • Jonathan
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Great service and ambiance, will definitely visit again
    More info
    The Prado at Balboa ParkPrice: Moderate• Californian• Downtown
    •
    4.6
  • LouiseE
    San Diego •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Apr 1, 2023
    worth every penny and every calorie - bravo chef bradley and staff!
    More info
    Addison By William BradleyPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Del Mar
    •
    4.9

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